United in worship of the only true God (1983)
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United in Worship of the Only True God
Source: jw.org
Contents
Title Page/Publishers’ Page
Contents
Unity in Worship—What Should It Mean for You?
Magnify Jehovah as the True God
Keep a Firm Grip on the Word of God
The One to Whom All the Prophets Bore Witness
Freedom Enjoyed by Worshipers of Jehovah
The Issue That All Creation Has to Face
What We Learn From God’s Permission of Evil
‘Wrestling Against Wicked Spirit Forces’
Power of the Resurrection Hope
A Kingdom “That Will Not Be Brought to Ruin”
‘Keep On Seeking First the Kingdom’
The Meaning of Your Baptism
A Great Crowd Before Jehovah’s Throne
‘I Make a Covenant With You for a Kingdom’
How Does Jehovah Direct His Organization?
Listen to Counsel, Accept Discipline
“Have Intense Love for One Another”
We Need to Practice Godly Devotion at Home
What the Mosaic Law Means to You
Life and Blood—Do You Treat Them as Sacred?
“They Are No Part of the World”
Continue to Speak God’s Word With Boldness
Keep Close in Mind Jehovah’s Day
Jehovah’s Purpose Attains Glorious Success
Title Page/Publishers’ Page
Title Page/Publishers’ Page
United in Worship of the Only True God
Millions of persons have a knowledge of basic Bible teachings. But to experience to the full the joy of sharing in united worship of the true God, they need to press on to Christian maturity. This book has been prepared to help all such persons to broaden and deepen their understanding of God’s Word and to apply it more fully in their lives.
—The Publishers
Contents
Contents
PAGE CHAPTER
5 1 Unity in Worship—What Should It Mean for You?
12 2 Magnify Jehovah as the True God
20 3 Keep a Firm Grip on the Word of God
29 4 The One to Whom All the Prophets Bore Witness
38 5 Freedom Enjoyed by Worshipers of Jehovah
46 6 The Issue That All Creation Has to Face
55 7 What We Learn From God’s Permission of Evil
62 8 ‘Wrestling Against Wicked Spirit Forces’
70 9 Power of the Resurrection Hope
78 10 A Kingdom “That Will Not Be Brought to Ruin”
87 11 ‘Keep On Seeking First the Kingdom’
95 12 The Meaning of Your Baptism
103 13 A Great Crowd Before Jehovah’s Throne
110 14 ‘I Make a Covenant With You for a Kingdom’
117 15 How Does Jehovah Direct His Organization?
125 16 Listen to Counsel, Accept Discipline
132 17 “Have Intense Love for One Another”
139 18 We Need to Practice Godly Devotion at Home
146 19 What the Mosaic Law Means to You
154 20 Life and Blood—Do You Treat Them as Sacred?
161 21 “They Are No Part of the World”
169 22 Continue to Speak God’s Word With Boldness
176 23 Keep Close in Mind Jehovah’s Day
184 24 Jehovah’s Purpose Attains Glorious Success
Unity in Worship—What Should It Mean for You?
Chapter 1
Unity in Worship—What Should It Mean for You?
1, 2. (a) On what basis is true unity of worship being brought about in our day? (b) How does the Bible describe what is taking place?
AROUND the globe there is a thrilling movement toward unity of worship. It is drawing together people of all nations and tribes and languages. Their unity is not a result of any compromising of beliefs. It is not being achieved by their refraining from criticizing life-styles that are in conflict with God’s Word. Then what accounts for it? The fact that people of every background are coming to know Jehovah as the only true God and are willingly bringing their lives into harmony with his righteous ways.—Compare Revelation 15:3, 4.
2 This is in fulfillment of a prophecy that was recorded some 2,700 years ago by the prophet Micah. With reference to “the final part of the days,” he wrote: “Many nations will certainly go and say: ‘Come, you people, and let us go up to the mountain of Jehovah and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will instruct us about his ways, and we will walk in his paths.’” (Mic. 4:1, 2)a Do you see that taking place?
3, 4. (a) How is it true that “nations” are turning to Jehovah? (b) What questions should we ask ourselves?
3 No entire “nations” are presenting themselves at Jehovah’s spiritual house for worship. But individuals out of such nations are doing so. As they learn about the loving purpose and the appealing personality of Jehovah God, their hearts are deeply moved. Humbly they seek to find out what God requires of them. Their prayer is like that of David, a man of faith who said: “Teach me to do your will, for you are my God.”—Ps. 143:10.
4 Do you see yourself among that vast crowd of worshipers of Jehovah? Does your response to the instruction received give evidence that you truly appreciate that Jehovah is its source? To what extent are you ‘walking in his paths’?
How It Is Achieved
5. (a) To what extent will unity of worship eventually be achieved? (b) Why is it urgent to become a worshiper of Jehovah now, and how can we help others to do this?
5 Jehovah’s purpose is for all intelligent creation to be united in worship—none being misled by falsehood, none groping because of failure to find the real meaning of life. How we long for the day when all who live will bless the only true God! (Ps. 103:19-22) But before that can be, Jehovah must purge his creation of those who spurn his loving kingship and who insist on spoiling life for others. Mercifully he gives advance notice of what he will do. People everywhere have opportunity to change their course. Thus in our own day this urgent appeal is being made worldwide: “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of the judgment by him has arrived, and so worship the One who made the heaven and the earth and sea and fountains of waters.” (Rev. 14:6, 7) Have you accepted that invitation? If so, it is now your privilege to work with Jehovah’s organization to help others to do so.
6. After learning basic teachings of the Bible, what further progress should we earnestly endeavor to make?
6 It is not God’s purpose to bring into his organization people who simply say they believe in Jehovah and that they want to live in Paradise but who at the same time continue to pursue their own selfish interests. He wants people to come to an “accurate knowledge of his will,” and this should be reflected in their lives. (Col. 1:9, 10) After appreciative persons learn the fundamental teachings of the Bible, they want to press on to Christian maturity. Their desire is to get to know Jehovah intimately, to broaden and deepen their understanding of his Word, and to apply it more fully in their lives. They seek to be like their heavenly Father, reflecting his qualities and viewing matters as he does. This moves them to search out ways to share as fully as possible in the work that he is having done in the earth in our day. Is that what you are doing?—Eph. 5:1; Heb. 5:12–6:3; 1 Tim. 4:15.
7. In what ways is true unity possible now, and how is it achieved?
7 The Bible shows that those who serve Jehovah are to be a united people. (Eph. 4:1-3) This unity is to exist now, even though we live in a divided world and are still struggling with our own imperfections. Jesus earnestly prayed that his disciples would all be one, enjoying true unity. What would this mean? That first of all they would have a good relationship with Jehovah and his Son. Also that they would be united with one another. (John 17:20, 21) This is now being achieved as they apply the instruction received at Jehovah’s “house.”
What Factors Contribute to Unity?
8. (a) What do we develop when we personally use the Bible to reason out answers to questions that affect us? (b) By answering the questions listed above, analyze the factors contributing to Christian unity.
8 Some of the key factors contributing to this unity are numbered below. As you answer the questions that follow these, give thought to how each one affects your own relationship with Jehovah and with fellow Christians. Reasoning on these points in the light of the scriptures cited will contribute to your development of God-oriented thinking ability and discernment, which are qualities that all of us need. (Prov. 5:1, 2; Phil. 1:9-11) So consider these factors one at a time:
(1) We all worship Jehovah and acknowledge his right to set the standard as to good and bad.
How would Jehovah view it if we deliberately ignored his counsel on a matter that seemed minor to us? (Luke 16:10; compare Malachi 1:6-8.)
Are others affected if we do not always obey Jehovah’s commands? (Compare Romans 5:12; Joshua 7:20-26; 1 Kings 14:16.)
(2) Wherever we are in the world, we have God’s Word to guide us.
When we make decisions, what danger is there in simply doing what we “feel” is right? (Jer. 17:9; Prov. 14:12)
If we do not know what counsel the Bible gives on a certain matter, what should we do? (Prov. 2:3-5)
(3) We all benefit from the same spiritual feeding program.
What conditions exist among those who do not appreciate Jehovah’s arrangements for spiritual feeding? (Compare Isaiah 1:3; 9:16; 65:14.)
(4) Jesus Christ, and no human, is our Leader and the one through whom we all approach Jehovah in worship.
Do any of us have valid reason to believe that as persons we are superior to others? (Rom. 3:23, 24; 12:3; Matt. 23:8-10)
(5) No matter where we live, we look to God’s Kingdom as the only hope for humankind.
How does this safeguard us against divisive influences? (Matt. 6:9, 10; Mic. 4:3)
(6) Holy spirit produces in worshipers of Jehovah qualities that are vital to Christian unity.
How do we open the way for God’s spirit to produce its fruitage in us? (Ps. 1:2; Prov. 22:4; Rev. 3:6; Acts 5:32)
How does our having the fruits of the spirit influence our relationship with Jehovah? With our brothers? (Gal. 5:22, 23)
(7) All of us have the responsibility to preach the good news of God’s Kingdom.
How does our being busy sharing in this preaching activity with fellow Christians influence how we feel about them? (Compare Colossians 4:7, 11.)
9. What is the effect when we really apply these truths in our lives?
9 Acknowledging these facts is one thing. Living in harmony with them requires much more. But when we do so, we are drawn close to Jehovah. Our association with fellow believers also becomes a source of refreshment. As Psalm 133:1 says: “Look! How good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity!” Have not you personally experienced how refreshing it can be to get away from the world, with all its selfishness, and to be present at meetings with others who truly love Jehovah?
Avoid Divisive Influences
10. Why do we need to be careful to avoid an independent spirit?
10 So as not to mar that precious unity, we must avoid divisive influences. One of the foremost among these is the spirit of independence. Jehovah helps us to avoid it by unmasking its originator, Satan the Devil. He is the one who deceived Eve into thinking that it would be to her advantage to ignore what God had said and to make her own decisions. Adam joined her in that rebellious course. The result was calamity for them and for us. (Gen. 2:16, 17; 3:1-6, 17-19) We are living in a world that is saturated with that independent spirit, so it should not surprise us if we need to curb that spirit in ourselves. Lovingly Jehovah helps us to do so by counsel through his organization.
11. What will show whether we are sincerely preparing for life in God’s righteous New Order?
11 Through that organization we have learned of Jehovah’s grand promise to replace the present environment with new heavens and a new earth in which “righteousness is to dwell.” (2 Pet. 3:13) We thrill at the prospect that soon this wicked world will be gone and the earth will be transformed into a Paradise. But does our own life pattern show that we are sincerely preparing for life in a world where righteousness will be the prevailing practice? The Bible plainly tells us: “Do not be loving either the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” (1 John 2:15) It is true that there are many things about the world that none of us like. But do we dislike mainly those aspects of the world that infringe on our own immediate enjoyment of life? Or do we also shun its spirit—its independent attitude, its excessive concern for self? Are we genuinely making it a practice to listen to Jehovah and to obey him from our heart, despite any contrary inclinations of the flesh? Our entire life course—no matter where we are, no matter what we are doing—should give evidence that our thinking and our motives are God oriented.—Prov. 3:5, 6.
12. (a) Why is it important to seize the opportunity now to learn Jehovah’s ways and to follow them in our lives? (b) What do the scriptures cited in the paragraph mean to us personally?
12 When Jehovah’s appointed time comes to destroy this wicked system of things and all who love its ways, he will not delay. He is not going to postpone that time or change his standards so as to accommodate those who are still trying to cling to the world, those who are only halfhearted about learning God’s will and doing it. Now is the time for action! (Luke 13:23, 24; 17:32; 21:34-36) How heartwarming it is, therefore, to see the “great crowd” of persons who are taking hold of this precious opportunity, eagerly seeking the instruction that Jehovah provides through his loving organization and then unitedly walking in his paths!
[Footnotes]
Scripture quotations in this book are from the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, 1981 edition.
Review Discussion
● What is Jehovah’s purpose as to worship?
● After having learned basic Bible teachings, what further progress should we earnestly seek to make?
● What can we individually do, so that the unifying factors that we have discussed will influence our lives as they should?
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Magnify Jehovah as the True God
Chapter 2
Magnify Jehovah as the True God
1. (a) Who is the true God? (b) As we learn about him, how should our own lives be affected?
TO FELLOW Christians the apostle Paul wrote that, even though there are many who are called gods, “there is actually to us one God the Father . . . and there is one Lord, Jesus Christ.” (1 Cor. 8:5, 6) The “one God” to whom Paul referred is Jehovah, the Creator of all things. (Deut. 6:4; Rev. 4:11) Appreciative persons who learn of his qualities and the things that he has done for humankind find themselves irresistibly drawn to him. With what result? It is only natural for them to magnify the One that they so deeply admire, doing so by both words and deeds. As their love for God grows, they feel impelled to tell others about him, and to the extent possible for them as humans they want to imitate him. The Bible encourages all of us to do that, saying: “Become imitators of God, as beloved children, and go on walking in love.” (Eph. 5:1, 2) To apply that counsel, we need to get to know Jehovah as he truly is.
The Kind of Person Jehovah Is
2. What are some of God’s outstanding qualities that move us to praise him?
2 Throughout the Bible are found numerous direct statements identifying the outstanding qualities of God. When you read these, take time to think about what the qualities really are and how important they are to you. For example: “God is love.” (1 John 4:8) “All his ways are justice.” (Deut. 32:4) ‘With him there is wisdom.’ (Job 12:13) He is “vigorous in power.” (Isa. 40:26) As you reflect on these attributes, are you not moved, out of admiration for God, to praise him?
3. What other aspects of Jehovah’s personality are very appealing?
3 Further acquainting us with his appealing personality, the Bible tells us that Jehovah is “a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness and truth.” (Ex. 34:6) “You, O Jehovah, are good and ready to forgive.” (Ps. 86:5) “As regards Jehovah, his eyes are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him.” (2 Chron. 16:9) “God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.” (Acts 10:34, 35) Jehovah “gives generously” and is “the happy God.” (Jas. 1:5; 1 Tim. 1:11) How refreshing it is to serve this incomparable God and to experience his loving care!
4. (a) What kind of devotion does Jehovah require, and how important is it? (b) In what does Psalm 34:3 invite us to share?
4 Consistent with his attributes is the fact that he is “a God exacting exclusive devotion.” (Ex. 20:5) To serve him acceptably we must give him our full devotion. We cannot also love the world of which Satan is god. (1 John 2:15-17; 2 Cor. 4:3, 4) Jehovah sees through any mere pretense of righteousness. He knows full well not only what we do but also how we feel about it and what kind of persons we are trying to be. If we truly love righteousness, he helps us. (Jer. 17:10; Prov. 15:9) Because of the kind of person Jehovah is, millions of people earth wide have gladly accepted the invitation of the Bible psalmist who wrote: “O magnify Jehovah with me, you people, and let us exalt his name together.” (Ps. 34:3) Are you one of them?
5. What will help us to benefit fully from our study of Jehovah’s personality?
5 Your desire to talk about God will deepen, and you will be greatly assisted in your efforts to imitate him if you examine closely his lofty qualities. Find out (1) exactly what each quality is, perhaps what makes it different from other qualities, (2) how Jehovah has demonstrated it and toward whom, also (3) how you can manifest it or how it should affect your viewpoint.
6. Using love as an example, show how you might examine Jehovah’s qualities. Do this by answering the questions at the end of this paragraph, including scriptures in your answers.
6 Consider here just one example. When the Bible says, “God is love,” what does it mean? (1 John 4:8) There are, of course, a number of kinds of love. The Greek word used in this text is a·gaʹpe, which refers to the highest form of love, as exemplified in Jehovah God himself. Such love is an expression of complete unselfishness. With that in mind, frame your own answers to the questions below, using the scriptures cited.
How is this quality demonstrated in Jehovah’s works of creation? (Acts 14:16, 17)
What is the most outstanding example of Jehovah’s love for humankind? (John 3:16) Was it because of man’s goodness that Jehovah did this? (Rom. 5:8)
How should what Jehovah did by means of his Son influence the way we use our lives? (2 Cor. 5:14, 15, 18, 19)
In what ways may we as Christians show that we have the same kind of love for fellow Christians? (1 Cor. 13:4-7; 1 John 4:10, 11; 3:16-18)
Toward whom else should we show love, and how? (Matt. 5:43-48; 28:19, 20; Gal. 6:10)
7. In your personal study, how can you find similar material about Jehovah’s other qualities?
7 Would you like also to explore some of Jehovah’s other qualities? For a start, in personal study why not try “justice” and “wisdom,” then perhaps “loving-kindness” and “mercy.” With the use of indexes to Watch Tower publications and a Bible concordance, you will find a wealth of enlightening material.
Help Others to Learn the Truth About God
8. (a) What gods do people of the world worship? (b) Who is behind all this confusion, and why do you say so?
8 In opposition to the worship of the true God, literally millions of other gods are worshiped by humans. In the fourth century, Christendom adopted belief in a “Trinity,” taught by Babylonians, Egyptians, Hindus and Buddhists before then. In addition to this concept of God, there are powerful rulers, outstanding athletes and singers who have been idolized like gods. Money, self and sex have also become gods to which fervent devotion is given. Who is behind it all? “The god of this system of things,” Satan the Devil. (2 Cor. 4:4; 1 Cor. 10:20) By every conceivable, crafty means he tries to turn people away from Jehovah, or at least to divide their devotion.
9. What is the best way to help anyone learn the truth about God?
9 How can we assist such persons, whether professed Christians or others, to know the truth about God? One of the finest ways is to show them in a helpful manner what the Bible itself says about the identity of the true God and the kind of person he is. Then we need to back this up by conduct that reflects godly qualities in our own lives.—1 Pet. 2:12.
10. When talking to a Trinitarian, why is it not wise to assume that we know exactly what he believes?
10 But what if some who are members of Christendom’s churches contend with you, claiming that their belief in the “Trinity” is Scriptural? First of all, realize that, although there are official statements of the “Trinity” doctrine, many persons have their own ideas. Invite them to express themselves, and then help them to compare their beliefs with what is in their own Bible. In time, also encourage them to compare official church teaching with God’s Word.
11. Taking just one of the five main points at a time, use the questions and scriptures listed with this paragraph to reason on the unscripturalness of the “Trinity” doctrine.
11 Having in mind the desire to help sincere persons, consider how you might use the texts noted below to reason on the points with which these scriptures are shown:
(1) Some Trinitarians emphasize the idea that there are three divine Persons (Father, Son and Holy Ghost) but just one God.
But does Acts 2:4, 17 indicate that the “Holy Ghost,” or “holy spirit,” is a person?
Why is it helpful to note how many persons are referred to in each of the following scriptures? (John 17:20-22; Acts 7:56; Rev. 7:10)
(2) Some believe that all members of the “Trinity” are of equal glory, that none is greater or less than another, that they are coequal as well as coeternal.
Do the Scriptures agree? (For the answer, see John 14:28; Matthew 24:36; Revelation 3:14.)
(3) Some people point to John 1:1 as proof of the “Trinity.” They argue that the Greek text here has no indefinite article (“a”) and that the scripture must therefore read: “the Word was God,” instead of “a god.”
But how many persons are spoken of in John 1:1? Three? Or two? How does John 1:18 also conflict with the “Trinity” doctrine?
It is true that Greek has no indefinite article, but many languages do, and it is used in those languages in order to express thoughts correctly. If someone feels that it is wrong to use the indefinite article when translating John 1:1, would he also want it left out at Acts 28:6 according to the King James Version and others? (Another way of rendering John 1:1, as shown in An American Translation, is “the Word was divine,” that is, he had the same divine qualities that God has.)
(4) Trinitarians also argue that at Genesis 1:1, 26 the Hebrew word translated “God” is El·o·himʹ and that this is the plural in Hebrew and actually means “Gods.”
Why does that not support the teaching of three divine Persons in “one God”?
If it indicates a “Trinity” at Genesis 1:1, what does it indicate at Judges 16:23, which uses el·o·himʹ for “god,” with the Hebrew verb in the singular number, not the plural?
Why is the plural form of God used in these texts in Hebrew? This is one way that Hebrew conveys the idea of excellence or majesty. If more than one person were meant, accompanying verbs would also be plural, but in the above instances they are not.
(5) Because of the emphasis that the churches have put on Jesus (along with the fact that the name Jehovah has been removed from many Bible translations), some persons think only of Jesus when God is mentioned.
But what example in worship did Jesus provide for us to imitate? (Luke 4:8)
12. Why did Jesus fittingly address his Father as “the only true God”?
12 Although Jesus is spoken of in the Scriptures as “a god,” even “Mighty God,” yet he magnified his Father, referring to him as “my God and your God.” (John 1:1; 20:17; Isa. 9:6) He agreed with Moses, who had earlier stated: “Jehovah is the true God; there is no other besides him.” (Deut. 4:35) Jehovah stands in utter contrast to such objects of worship as idols, deified humans and Satan the Devil. In contrast to all such, Jehovah is, as Jesus called him, “the only true God.”—John 17:3.
“Walk in the Name of Jehovah”
13, 14. What is involved in “knowing” and ‘walking in’ Jehovah’s name?
13 After years of confusion as to the identity of God, many persons find it thrilling when first they see God’s personal name, Jehovah, in their Bible. (Ex. 6:3) But they will be lastingly benefited by this knowledge only if they ‘walk in the name of Jehovah forever.’ (Mic. 4:5) This involves much more than simply knowing the name Jehovah or claiming that they are Jehovah’s Witnesses.
14 Regarding the significance of God’s name, Psalm 9:10 states: “Those knowing your name will trust in you, . . . O Jehovah.” What does that involve? It involves more than just knowing the name Jehovah, which does not automatically mean trusting in Jehovah. “Knowing” God’s name here means appreciating the kind of God that Jehovah is, respecting his authority, obeying his commands. Similarly, ‘walking in the name of Jehovah’ implies being dedicated to him and representing him as one of his worshipers, truly using one’s life in harmony with God’s will. (Luke 10:27) Are you doing that?
15. What, besides a sense of duty, is needed if we are going to serve Jehovah forever?
15 If we are going to serve Jehovah eternally, more than a sense of duty must impel us. The apostle Paul urged Timothy, who had already been serving Jehovah for many years: “Be training yourself with godly devotion as your aim.” (1 Tim. 4:7) Devotion comes from the heart; it is stirred by appreciation for the person to whom it is directed. “Godly devotion” is profound respect for Jehovah personally. It manifests loving attachment to him because of appreciation for him and his ways. It causes us to want everyone to hold his name in high esteem. We must cultivate “godly devotion” as the goal or aim in our lives if we are going to walk in the name of Jehovah, the true God, forever.—Ps. 37:4; 2 Pet. 3:11.
Review Discussion
● What kind of person is Jehovah? How are we benefited by getting a clear understanding of each of his qualities?
● How can we help other people to learn the truth about God?
● What is involved in “knowing” Jehovah and ‘walking in his name’?
Keep a Firm Grip on the Word of God
Chapter 3
Keep a Firm Grip on the Word of God
1. (a) How did ancient Israel experience the truthfulness of God’s Word? (b) Why is that of interest to us?
“YOU well know with all your hearts and with all your souls that not one word out of all the good words that Jehovah your God has spoken to you has failed. They have all come true for you.” This was the reminder that Joshua gave the older men of Israel after they were settled in the Promised Land. But in the years that followed they did not consistently take God’s Word to heart and apply it. What was the result? The Bible makes it plain that just as Jehovah’s promises of blessing had proved trustworthy, so, too, he carried out what he said as to the consequences of disobedience. (Josh. 23:14-16) That record, as well as all the rest of the Bible, was preserved for our instruction—so that “we might have hope” and so that we would not do something that would result in our forfeiting that hope.—Rom. 15:4.
2. (a) In what sense is the Bible “inspired of God”? (b) Knowing this, what responsibility do we have?
2 Although some 40 human “secretaries” were used to record the Bible, Jehovah himself is its Author. Does that mean he actively directed the writing of everything in it? Yes. As the apostle Paul truthfully said, “All Scripture is inspired of God.” Being convinced of that, we urge people everywhere to pay heed to it and to build their lives around what it contains, just as we endeavor to do.—2 Tim. 3:16; 1 Thess. 2:13.
What Will Help Others to Appreciate It?
3. What is the best way to help many of those who are not convinced that the Bible is the Word of God?
3 Of course, many to whom we speak do not share our conviction that the Bible really is the Word of God. How can we help them? Often, the very best way is to open the Bible and show them what it contains. “The word of God is alive and exerts power and is sharper than any two-edged sword . . . and is able to discern thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Heb. 4:12) “The word of God” is his word of promise, recorded in the Bible. It is not dead history but is alive and irresistibly moves toward fulfillment. As it does so, the true heart motivations of persons who are brought in touch with it become manifest as to meeting the conditions. Its influence is far more powerful than anything that we personally might say.
4. What simple explanations of Bible truths have changed the attitude of some persons toward the Bible? Why?
4 Simply seeing God’s name in the Bible has been the turning point for many persons. Others have decided to study the Bible when shown what it says about the purpose of life, why God permits wickedness, the significance of current events or the realistic hope centered on God’s Kingdom. In lands where religious practices have laid people open to much harassment by evil spirits, the Bible’s explanation of the cause of this and how to gain relief has aroused interest. Why are these points so impressive to them? Because the Bible is the only source of reliable information on these vital matters.—Ps. 119:130.
5. When a person says he does not believe the Bible, what may be the reason? How might we help him?
5 However, what if a person directly tells us that he does not believe the Bible? Should that end the conversation? Not if he is willing to reason. We ought to feel a responsibility to speak up with conviction in behalf of God’s Word. It may be that he views the Bible as Christendom’s book. Her record of hypocrisy and political meddling, as well as her constant solicitations for money, may account for his negative reaction to the Bible. Why not ask if that is so? The Bible’s condemnation of Christendom’s worldly ways, along with points of contrast between Christendom and true Christianity, may arouse his interest.—Compare Matthew 15:7-9; James 4:4; Micah 3:11, 12.
6. (a) What convinces you personally that the Bible is God’s Word? (b) What other lines of reasoning could be used to help people to appreciate that the Bible really is from God?
6 For others, a straightforward discussion of evidences of inspiration is helpful. What clearly proves to you that the Bible is from God? Is it what the Bible itself says as to its origin? (2 Tim. 3:16, 17; Rev. 1:1) Or is it the fact that the Bible contains numerous prophecies reflecting detailed knowledge of the future, which prophecies must therefore have come from a superhuman source? (2 Pet. 1:20, 21; Isa. 42:9) Is it perhaps the Bible’s internal harmony, although written down by many men over a period of 1,610 years? Or its scientific accuracy in contrast with other writings from those times? Or the candor of its writers? Or its preservation in the face of vicious efforts to destroy it? Whatever you have found to be impressive can also be used to help other people.
Our Personal Bible Reading
7, 8. (a) What should we individually be doing with the Bible? (b) What do we need in addition to personal Bible reading, and how does the Bible itself show this? (c) How have you personally gained an understanding of Jehovah’s purposes?
7 In addition to helping others to believe the Bible, we ourselves need to take time to read it regularly. Are you doing that? Of all the books ever produced, this one is the most important. Of course, that does not mean that if we read it we need nothing else. The Scriptures warn against isolating ourselves, thinking that we can figure out everything with independent research. Both personal study and regular meeting attendance are needed if we are to be balanced Christians.—Prov. 18:1; Heb. 10:24, 25.
8 For our benefit the Bible tells about an Ethiopian official to whom an angel directed the Christian evangelizer Philip when the official was reading from the prophecy of Isaiah. Philip asked the man: “Do you actually know what you are reading?” Humbly the Ethiopian replied: “Really, how could I ever do so, unless someone guided me?” He urged Philip to explain the passage of Scripture. Now, Philip was not merely an independent Bible reader who there gave his opinion on the Scriptures. No; the record shows that he had maintained close contact with the apostles in the congregation at Jerusalem and was a member of Jehovah’s visible organization. So he could help the Ethiopian to benefit from the instruction that Jehovah was making available through that organization. (Acts 6:5, 6; 8:5, 14, 15, 26-35) Similarly today, who of us arrived at a clear and correct understanding of Jehovah’s purposes on his own? On the contrary, we needed, and we continue to need, the aid that Jehovah lovingly provides through his visible organization.
9. What programs of Bible reading can benefit all of us?
9 To help us to use and understand the Bible, Jehovah’s organization supplies excellent Scriptural material in The Watchtower and related publications. In addition, a regular schedule of Bible reading is set out for us in connection with the Theocratic Ministry School in the congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Some of Jehovah’s Witnesses do consecutive Bible reading in addition to this. Great benefit can come from time spent in examining the Holy Scriptures. (Ps. 1:1-3; 19:7, 8) Have you personally read the entire Bible? If not, make a special effort to do so. Even though you do not fully understand everything, your having an overall view of it will be of great value. If you were to read only four or five pages a day, you would complete the Bible in about a year.
10. (a) When do you do your Bible reading? (b) Why is regularity important?
10 When can you personally arrange to do this Bible reading? If you are able to set aside even 10 or 15 minutes a day, how beneficial that will be! If not, at least schedule regular times for it each week, and then hold to that schedule. Bible reading should be a lifelong habit, like eating food. As you know, if a person’s eating habits become poor, his health will suffer. So, too, with our spirituality. Our life depends on our being regularly nourished by “every utterance coming forth through Jehovah’s mouth.”—Matt. 4:4.
11. What should be our objective in reading the Bible?
11 What should be our objective in reading the Bible? It would be a mistake if our goal were simply to cover a quota of pages or even solely to gain eternal life. To benefit lastingly, we must have higher motives—love for God, a desire to know him better, to understand his will and to worship him acceptably. (John 5:39-42) Our attitude should be like that of the Bible writer who said: “Make me know your own ways, O Jehovah; teach me your own paths.”—Ps. 25:4.
12. (a) Why is gaining “accurate knowledge” necessary, and what effort when reading may be needed in order to get it? (b) As shown on page 27, from what viewpoints might we beneficially analyze what we read in the Bible? (c) Illustrate these five points, one at a time, by answering the questions provided at the end of this paragraph. Be sure to use your Bible.
12 As we receive that teaching, it should be our desire to gain “accurate knowledge.” Without it, how could we apply God’s Word properly in our own lives or explain it correctly to others? (Col. 3:10; 2 Tim. 2:15) Gaining accurate knowledge requires that we read carefully, and if a portion is deep we may need to read it more than once in order to grasp the sense of it. We will also be benefited if we take time to meditate on the material, thinking about it from various standpoints. Five valuable avenues of thought to explore are highlighted on page 27 of this book. Many portions of Scripture can beneficially be analyzed by using one or more of these. As you answer the questions on the following pages you will see how that is so.
(1) Frequently the portion of Scripture that you are reading gives some indication as to the kind of person Jehovah is.
When we meditate appreciatively on what the Bible tells us about Jehovah’s works of creation, how does that affect our attitude toward him? (Ps. 139:13, 14; from Job chapters 38-42 note especially Job 38:1, 2 and Job 40:2, 8, then Job 42:1-6.)
In view of what Jesus said at John 14:9, 10, what can we conclude about Jehovah from incidents such as the one recorded at Luke 5:12, 13?
(2) Consider how the account contributes to development of the Bible’s theme, namely, the vindication of Jehovah’s name by the Kingdom under Jesus Christ the Promised Seed.
How are the plagues on Egypt related to this theme? (See Exodus 5:2; 9:16; 12:12.)
What about the heartwarming account concerning Ruth the Moabitess? (Ruth 4:13-17; Matt. 1:1, 5)
How does Gabriel’s announcement to Mary of the coming birth of Jesus fit in? (Luke 1:26-33)
Why is the anointing of Jesus’ disciples with holy spirit at Pentecost significant? (Acts 2:1-4; 1 Pet. 2:4, 5, 9; 2 Pet. 1:10, 11)
(3) Context has a bearing on the meaning of specific verses.
To whom are the statements at Romans 5:1 and Ro 8:16 addressed? (See Romans 1:7.)
Does the context indicate that 1 Corinthians 2:9 is commenting about life on earth in God’s New Order? As shown in 1 Co 2 verses 6-8, whose eyes and ears were not comprehending the things about which Paul was writing?
(4) Ask yourself how you can make personal application of what you are reading.
Is the record about Cain’s killing Abel merely of historical interest or is there counsel in it for us? (Gen. 4:3-12; 1 John 3:10-15; Heb. 11:4)
When we read (in Exodus through Deuteronomy) about Israel’s experiences in the wilderness, what personal application should we make? (1 Cor. 10:6-11)
Does counsel on conduct written to anointed Christians apply to persons who have hope of eternal life on earth? (Compare Numbers 15:16; John 10:16.)
Even though we are in good standing with the Christian congregation, is there need to consider ways that we could more fully apply Bible counsel that we already know? (2 Cor. 13:5; 1 Thess. 4:1)
(5) Give thought to how you might use what you are reading to aid others.
Who might be helped with the account of the resurrection of the daughter of Jairus? (Luke 8:41, 42, 49-56)
13. What results can we expect from a continuing program of Bible reading and study with Jehovah’s organization?
13 How richly rewarding Bible reading becomes when done in this manner! To be sure, reading the Bible is a challenge—a project that we can beneficially work at for a lifetime. But as we do it we will grow spiritually stronger. It will draw us closer to our loving Father, Jehovah, and to our Christian brothers. It will help us to heed the counsel to keep “a tight grip on the word of life.”—Phil. 2:16.
Review Discussion
● Why was the Bible written and preserved until our day?
● How can we help others to appreciate it?
● Why is regular personal Bible reading profitable? From what five viewpoints might we beneficially analyze what we read?
[Box/Picture on page 27]
When You Read the Bible Consider—
What each portion tells you about Jehovah as a person
How it relates to the overall theme of the Bible
How context affects the meaning
How it should affect your own life
How you can use it to help others
The One to Whom All the Prophets Bore Witness
Chapter 4
The One to Whom All the Prophets Bore Witness
1. What do the facts about Jesus’ prehuman existence show as to his relationship with Jehovah?
DESCRIBING his own warm relationship with Jehovah, Jesus said: “The Father has affection for the Son and shows him all the things he himself does.” (John 5:19, 20) The closeness of that relationship began at the time of his creation, countless millenniums before his human birth. He was God’s only-begotten Son, the only one created by Jehovah alone. Everything else in heaven and on earth was created by means of that dearly loved firstborn Son. He also served as God’s Word or Spokesman, the one through whom the divine will was communicated to others. This one, the Son that God was specially fond of, became the man Jesus Christ.—Col. 1:15, 16; John 1:14; 12:49, 50.
2. To what extent do Bible prophecies refer to Jesus?
2 Before his miraculous birth as a human, scores of inspired prophecies about him were recorded. As the apostle Peter testified to Cornelius, “To him all the prophets bear witness.” (Acts 10:43) To such an extent is Jesus’ role in connection with pure worship featured in the Bible that an angel told the apostle John: “Worship God; for the bearing witness to Jesus is what inspires prophesying.” (Rev. 19:10) Those prophecies clearly identify him and draw attention to aspects of God’s purpose regarding him that are of keen interest to us today.
What the Prophecies Revealed
3. (a) In the prophecy at Genesis 3:14, 15, who is represented by “the serpent”? “The woman”? ‘The seed of the serpent’? (b) Why would the ‘bruising of the serpent in the head’ be of great interest to Jehovah’s servants?
3 The first of such prophecies was spoken after the rebellion in Eden. It was embodied in Jehovah’s judgment addressed to the serpent. Jehovah said: “I shall put enmity between you and the woman and between your seed and her seed. He will bruise you in the head and you will bruise him in the heel.” (Gen. 3:14, 15) What did that mean? In God’s due time other prophecies clarified it and enlarged on it. As a result we know that the one to whom it was addressed, as represented by the serpent, is Satan the Devil. “The woman” is Jehovah’s own loyal heavenly organization, which is to him like a faithful wife. ‘The seed of the serpent’ includes both angels and humans who manifest the spirit of the Devil, those who oppose Jehovah and his people. In view of the way the serpent was used by the Devil in Eden, it could be discerned from the prophecy that the ‘bruising of the serpent in the head’ referred to eventual destruction of this rebel son of God who had slandered Jehovah and brought great grief to mankind. But as for the identity of the “seed” that would do the bruising, this long remained a sacred secret.—Rom. 16:25, 26.
4. How did Jesus’ ancestry help to identify him as the promised Seed?
4 After some 2,000 years of human history Jehovah provided further details. He indicated that the Seed would appear in the family line of Abraham. (Gen. 22:15-18) However, the line leading to the Seed would depend not merely on fleshly descent but on God’s choice. In spite of Abraham’s love for his son Ishmael, born to the slave girl Hagar, Jehovah pointedly said: “My covenant I shall establish with Isaac, whom Sarah will bear to you.” (Gen. 17:18-21; 21:8-12) Later that covenant was confirmed, not to Isaac’s firstborn son Esau, but to Jacob, from whom the 12 tribes of Israel descended. (Gen. 28:10-14) In time it was indicated that the Seed would be born in the tribe of Judah, in the house of David.—Gen. 49:10; 1 Chron. 17:3, 4, 11-14.
5. Even early in Jesus’ earthly ministry, what else made it evident that he was the Messiah?
5 Over 700 years in advance, the Bible named Bethlehem as the place of the human birth of the Seed but also revealed that he was one who had already existed “from the days of time indefinite,” since the time when he was created in heaven. (Mic. 5:2) The time of his appearance on earth as Jehovah’s Anointed One, the Messiah, was foretold through the prophet Daniel. (Dan. 9:24-26) And when he was anointed with holy spirit, a voice from heaven identified him. (Matt. 3:16, 17) So, after becoming a follower of Jesus, Philip could say with conviction: “We have found the one of whom Moses, in the Law, and the Prophets wrote, Jesus, the son [by adoption] of Joseph, from Nazareth.”—John 1:45.
6. (a) After Jesus’ death, what did his followers come to realize? (b) Who, principally, is the ‘seed of the woman,’ and what is meant by his bruising the serpent’s head?
6 Thereafter, Jesus’ followers came to realize that literally scores of prophetic references to him were woven into the inspired Scriptures. Following his death and resurrection, he personally “interpreted to them things pertaining to himself in all the Scriptures.” (Luke 24:27) It is now apparent that Jesus, principally, is the ‘seed of the woman,’ the one who bruises the head of the “serpent” in such a manner that Satan is finally crushed out of existence. By means of Jesus all God’s promises to humankind, all the things for which we earnestly long, will be brought to fulfillment.—2 Cor. 1:20.
7. In addition to the identity of the one referred to in these prophecies, what else is it beneficial to consider?
7 When you first read some of these prophecies perhaps you asked, as did the Ethiopian eunuch, “About whom does the prophet say this?” But the eunuch did not let the matter rest when he received the answer. After listening carefully to the explanation that Philip gave, the man realized that appreciation for how Jesus fulfilled the prophecy called for action on his own part, by his getting baptized. (Acts 8:32-38; Isa. 53:3-9) Do we respond similarly? Sometimes it is the manner in which a prophecy is presented that deeply moves us, or our heart may be touched by the conclusions that are drawn in the Bible itself when the fulfillment is pointed out.
8. Four prophetic patterns regarding Jesus Christ are considered here. Reason on the questions and scriptures provided to show how these prophecies affect us. Consider just one at a time.
8 Notice how this is so with the following prophetic promises and patterns concerning Jesus Christ. The questions are for you to answer with the aid of the cited scriptures.
(1) How does the record about Abraham’s attempt to offer up Isaac help us to appreciate what Jehovah did in providing the ransom by means of his Son? (John 3:16; Gen. 22:1-18 [notice how Isaac is described in Ge 22 verse 2.])
What confidence should this give us? (Rom. 8:32, 38, 39)
But what is required on our part? (Gen. 22:18; John 3:36)
(2) In identifying Jesus as the prophet like Moses, of what serious responsibility does the Bible remind us? (Acts 3:22, 23; Deut. 18:15-19)
What are some of the things that Jesus has spoken to us, and why are they timely now? (Matt. 28:18-20; 19:4-9; 18:3-6)
(3) When explaining what was foreshadowed by the priesthood of Aaron, to what appealing qualities of Jesus as high priest does the Bible direct attention? (Heb. 4:15–5:3; 7:26-28)
So how should we feel about approaching God in prayer through Christ for help to overcome our weaknesses?
(4) In view of the superiority of Jesus’ sacrifice (replacing all those offered under the Mosaic Law), why should we be very careful to avoid getting into the habit of doing anything that we know is displeasing to God? (Heb. 10:26, 27)
If we truly appreciate the hope of life made possible as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice, what things will we be diligent to do? (Heb. 10:19-25)
How Can We Show Our Faith in Christ?
9. Why is there no salvation for us apart from Jesus Christ?
9 After pointing out to the Jewish high court in Jerusalem how prophecy had been fulfilled in Jesus, the apostle Peter forcefully concluded: “There is no salvation in anyone else, for there is not another name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must get saved.” (Acts 4:11, 12; Ps. 118:22) All Adam’s offspring are sinners, so their death comes as the condemnation for sin and holds no merit that can be applied as a ransom for anyone. But Jesus was perfect, and the laying down of his life has sacrificial value. (Ps. 49:6-9; Heb. 2:9) He offered to God a ransom that exactly corresponded in value with what Adam had lost for his descendants. How has this benefited us?—1 Tim. 2:5, 6.
10. Explain one way in which Jesus’ sacrifice has greatly benefited us.
10 It has made possible our having a clean conscience because of forgiveness of sin—something far more than was ever achieved for Israel by the animal sacrifices under the Mosaic Law. (Acts 13:38, 39; Heb. 9:13, 14) Having this, of course, requires that we be honest with ourselves and that we have genuine faith in Jesus Christ. Do we personally appreciate how much we need Christ’s sacrifice? “If we make the statement: ‘We have no sin,’ we are misleading ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous so as to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”—1 John 1:8, 9.
11. Why is water immersion an important factor in gaining a good conscience toward God?
11 Of course, some who say that they know they are sinners and who profess to believe in Christ, who even share to some extent in telling others about God’s Kingdom as Jesus did, nevertheless stop short of full faith in Jesus. In what way? Well, as shown in the Bible, when persons in the first century truly became believers, how did they publicly demonstrate that? They got baptized. Why? Because Jesus had commanded that disciples be baptized. (Matt. 28:19, 20; Acts 8:12; 18:8) When a person’s heart is really moved by the loving provision that Jehovah made through Jesus Christ, he will not hold back. He will make any needed adjustments in his life, dedicate himself to God and symbolize this by water immersion. As the Bible shows, it is by demonstrating faith in this way that he makes ‘request to God for a good conscience.’—1 Pet. 3:21.
12. If we realize that we have committed a sin, what should we do about it, and why?
12 Even after that, of course, sinful traits will show themselves. What then? “I am writing you these things that you may not commit a sin,” said the apostle John. So we should not lightly pass off sin in ourselves, whether manifest in action, speech or attitude. “And yet, if anyone does commit a sin, we have a helper with the Father, Jesus Christ, a righteous one. And he is a propitiatory sacrifice for our sins, yet not for ours only but also for the whole world’s.” (1 John 2:1, 2) Does that mean that, no matter what we do, if we pray to God, ‘Forgive us our sins,’ everything will be all right? No. The key to forgiveness is genuine repentance. Help may also be needed from elders in the Christian congregation. We must recognize the wrongness of what was done and feel sincere regret over it so that we will make an earnest effort to avoid repeating it. (Acts 3:19; Jas. 5:13-16) If we do this, we can be assured of Jesus’ help. On the basis of our faith in the sin-atoning value of his sacrifice, restoration to Jehovah’s favor is possible, and this is vital if our worship is to be acceptable to him.
13. (a) Explain another way in which Jesus’ sacrifice has benefited us. (b) Why does our service to God not earn this reward? (c) But if we really have faith, what will we be doing?
13 Jesus’ sacrifice has also opened to us the opportunity for eternal life—in the heavens for a “little flock,” and on a Paradise earth for billions more of mankind. (Luke 12:32; Rev. 20:11, 12; 21:3, 4) This is not a reward that we earn. No matter how much we do in Jehovah’s service, we can never build up such merit that God will owe us life. Eternal life is “the gift God gives . . . by Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Rom. 6:23; Eph. 2:8-10) Nevertheless, if we have faith in that gift and appreciation for the manner in which it was made possible, we will make this manifest. Discerning how marvelously Jehovah has used Jesus in accomplishing His will and how vital it is that all of us follow Jesus’ steps closely, we will make the Christian ministry one of the most important things in our life. Our faith will be evident from the conviction with which we tell others about this magnificent gift of God.—Compare Acts 20:24.
14. How does such faith in Jesus Christ have a unifying effect?
14 What a fine, unifying effect such faith has! By means of it we are drawn close to Jehovah, to his Son and to one another within the Christian congregation. (1 John 3:23, 24) It causes us to rejoice that Jehovah has kindly given to his Son “the name that is above every other name [except God’s name], so that in the name of Jesus every knee should bend of those in heaven and those on earth and those under the ground, and every tongue should openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.”—Phil. 2:9-11.
Review Discussion
● When the Messiah appeared, why was his identity clear to those who truly believed God’s Word?
● How should the prophetic patterns fulfilled in Jesus, as depicted on page 34, affect us?
● In what ways has Jesus’ sacrifice already benefited us? How can we show our appreciation for it?
[Box/Pictures on page 34]
Prophetic Patterns About Jesus—How Should They Affect You?
Abraham offering up Isaac
Moses as spokesman for God
Aaron as high priest
Animal sacrifices
Freedom Enjoyed by Worshipers of Jehovah
Chapter 5
Freedom Enjoyed by Worshipers of Jehovah
1, 2. (a) What kind of freedom did God give the first human pair? (b) Mention some of the laws that governed their activity.
WHEN Jehovah created the first human pair, they enjoyed freedom far surpassing any that humans have today. Their home was Paradise. No illness marred their enjoyment of life. Death was not waiting for them. But respect for God’s laws was an important factor in their continuing to have such freedom.
2 Some of those laws may not have been stated in words, but Adam and Eve were made in such a way that it was only natural to obey them. Thus appetite signaled the need to eat; thirst, the need to drink. The setting of the sun encouraged them to get needed rest and sleep. Jehovah also spoke to them and gave them an assignment of work. Actually that assignment was a law, because it would govern their course of action. But what a kindly, beneficial law it was! It gave them work that would be thoroughly satisfying, enabling them to use their faculties to the full in wholesome ways. They were to bring forth children, exercise dominion over earth’s animal life and gradually extend the borders of Paradise until it covered the globe. (Gen. 1:28; 2:15) God did not burden them with unnecessary details. Ample leeway was allowed for them to make decisions. What more could anyone ask?
3. How could Adam have been helped to use wisely his freedom to make decisions?
3 Of course, when Adam was granted the privilege of making decisions, that did not mean that just any decision he might make, no matter what it was, would produce good results. His freedom to make decisions implied responsibility. He could learn by listening to his heavenly Father and observing His works, and God had given Adam intelligence that would enable him to apply what he learned. Since Adam was created “in God’s image,” his natural inclination would be to reflect godly qualities when making decisions. He surely would be careful to do that if he truly appreciated what God had done for him and wanted to please God.—Gen. 1:26, 27; compare John 8:29.
4. (a) Did the restrictive command given to Adam deprive him of freedom? (b) Why was it a fitting requirement?
4 As a reminder of man’s dependence on his Creator and Life-Giver, Jehovah laid this command on him: “From every tree of the garden you may eat to satisfaction. But as for the tree of the knowledge of good and bad you must not eat from it, for in the day you eat from it you will positively die.” (Gen. 2:16, 17) Did that law deprive man of freedom? Certainly not. Adam was free to obey or to disobey. The prohibition imposed no burden. He had an abundance to eat without touching that one tree. However, it was only fitting that he recognize that the earth on which he lived belongs to God and that, as the Creator, God is the rightful Ruler of his creation.—Ps. 24:1, 10.
5. (a) How did Adam and Eve lose the glorious freedom they had? (b) What took its place, and how have we been affected?
5 But what happened? Motivated by selfish ambition, an angel deceived Eve by posing as a true guide, assuring her of something contrary to God’s will. Rather than obeying his Father, Adam joined Eve in transgression. By grasping for something that did not belong to them, Adam and Eve lost the glorious freedom that they had. Sin became their master and, as God had warned, death positively awaited them. As a result, what inheritance was passed on to their offspring? Sin, manifest in an inborn tendency toward wrongdoing, in weaknesses that make one susceptible to disease and in eventual deterioration through aging. Also death. The inherited inclination toward wrongdoing, aggravated by Satanic influence, has produced a society in which life has become precarious for everyone. What a contrast to the freedom that God gave mankind at the beginning!—Rom. 5:12; Job 14:1; Rev. 12:9.
Where Freedom Can Be Found
6. (a) Where can real freedom be found? (b) About what kind of freedom was Jesus speaking at John 8:31, 32?
6 In view of conditions today, it is no surprise that people long for greater freedom than what they have. But where can real freedom be found? Jesus Christ said: “If you remain in my word, you are really my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31, 32) This freedom is not the limited kind that men hope for when they reject one political ruler or form of government in favor of another. Instead, it gets right to the core of human problems. What Jesus was discussing was freedom from sin, slavish bondage to sin. (See John 8:24, 34-36.) Thus if a person becomes a true disciple of Jesus Christ, this results in a notable change in his life, a liberation.
7. (a) In what sense, then, can we be free from sin now? (b) To have that freedom, what must we do?
7 That does not mean that at present true Christians no longer feel the effects of the inborn tendency toward sinful conduct. On the contrary, they have a struggle because of it. (Rom. 7:21-25) But if a person really lives in harmony with Jesus’ teachings, he will no longer be an abject slave to sin. Sin will no longer be to him like a king that gives orders that he obeys. He will no longer be trapped in a way of life that lacks purpose and that leaves him with a disturbed conscience. He will enjoy a clean conscience before God because past sins have been forgiven on the basis of his faith in the sacrifice of Christ. Sinful inclinations may try to assert themselves, but when he refuses to act on them because he calls to mind the clean teachings of Christ he will show that sin is not his master.—Rom. 6:12-17.
8. (a) What further freedom does true Christianity give us? (b) How should this affect our attitude toward secular rulers?
8 As Christians we enjoy great freedom. We have been liberated from the effects of false teachings, from bondage to superstition and servitude to sin. The grand truths about the condition of the dead and the resurrection have freed us from the unreasoning fear of violent death that causes men to suppress their conscience. Knowledge that imperfect human governments will be replaced by God’s righteous Kingdom frees us from hopelessness. But such freedom does not justify disregard for law or disrespect for governmental officials on the premise that soon the old system will be gone.—1 Pet. 2:16, 17; Titus 3:1, 2.
9. (a) How does Jehovah lovingly help us to enjoy the greatest measure of freedom now possible for humans? (b) In making decisions, how can we show that we clearly understand what resulted from Adam’s abuse of his freedom?
9 Jehovah does not leave us to figure out by trial and error which is the best way to live. He knows how we are made, what will bring us genuine contentment and a feeling of personal dignity, and what will be most lastingly beneficial for us. He also knows his own time schedule for carrying out his purpose and, therefore, the activities in which it is most worth while for us to engage. He likewise is aware of thoughts and conduct that can degrade a person or spoil his relations with others, even bar him from the blessings of God’s Kingdom. Lovingly he informs us of these things through the Bible and by means of his visible organization. (Gal. 5:19-23; Mark 13:10; compare 1 Timothy 1:12, 13.) Then it is up to us, using our God-given free will, to decide how we are going to respond. If we have taken to heart what the Bible tells us about how Adam lost the freedom given to mankind at the start, we will make those decisions wisely. We will show that a good relationship with Jehovah is our main concern in life.
…